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Saturday, September 8, 2012

EDLD 5364 Week Two

Beginning with the end in mind is a
concept that is definitely not foreign to me. I have always operated in a backward
sort of way and it seemed to work for me and for my students. Only recently
have I discovered that it is actually a system, an idea that author Stephen R. Covey
has turned into a profiting business venture. “Begin
with the End in Mind means to begin each day, task, or project with a clear
vision of your desired direction and destination, and then continue by flexing
your proactive muscles to make things happen” (Covey, 2004). Planning is a
never-ending task that we do as teachers. It seems that so much time goes in to
each lesson and then in a blink of an eye (or the duration of one period), it
is over. Sometimes it reminds me of anticipating the arrival of Christmas
morning. All of that work, and then it’s over in an instant. However, it’s the
planning that makes it go off without a hitch.

Establishing a direction for learning
is perhaps the most important decision within the planning process. This should
also include a way for students to become responsible for their own learning
and instill some sort of way to realize short and long term goals. This helps
motivate students and creates a sense of accomplishment when those goals are
reached. Technology can also play a role in setting these goals. “Technology
enhances the goal-setting process by providing organizational and communication
tools that make it easier to clarify the learning objectives” (Pitler, Hubbell,
Kuhn & Malenoski, 2007).Teachers
can use word processing applications, brainstorming software such as
Kidspiration, data collection tools such as Poll Everywhere, and other web resources.
Providing students with these tools that encourage responsible learning and
self-reflection extend far
beyond the classroom walls.